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Official mountain biking thread

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bakedpow
Posts: 8770 - Karma: 10,467
I know there are more brown pow lovers on this site, yah there is pinkbike but lets be honest, newshcoolers is wayyyy cooler. so lets posts our rides, questions about components, mechanic questions etc in this thread.

I just bought this beauty and i definitely sacrificed uphill capabiltiy in order to get a beefier dh/park bike. id been on a nomad for a while and it's a huge switch in riding styles for me. definitely getting used to the weight and having to keep speed a lot more.

specs for said beauty, 2011 rc2 dh totem, 2012 dhx rc4, highrollers front and back (gona go dhf front and highroller in the back), mtx 33 wheel set, slx brakes, diablous cranks, FSA 760mm Handlebar, Shimano SLX Shifter & Shimano Deore XT Derailleur.



Alright newschoolers, post your bikes. i wanna see some sexy steeds.
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Jun 9 2014 5:41PM
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TrickyDick470
Posts: 443 - Karma: 2,350
ThaLoraxInvest in an EVOC bike bag. You can throw your bike and most of your gear in with it and it will be much easier to transport and is safer than a bike box. I've used mine a handful of times and the protection of it alone has saved me. Airlines are not very friendly to bike boxes.


In the future I think I will, but for this trip I ended up just taking my gear only and renting. I am out here for 6 weeks and I have a lot of work equipment and stuff so it would be a pain to lug the bike too. If it was a shorter personal trip I would have got the bag.




Still super fun, gotta get used to this rental bike though.
Mar 3 2018 2:16PM
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jca
Posts: 4171 - Karma: 6,311
Just picked up this bad boy for a killer deal. '17 Trance Advanced 1.
Mar 21 2018 9:28PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
Mar 24 2018 7:14PM
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cadebucket
Posts: 298 - Karma: 990
Just ordered a YT capra 29, can't wait for it to come!!
Mar 26 2018 12:20PM
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mtbakerpow
Posts: 1105 - Karma: 927
Also just ordered a new Capra, 27 AL,still thinking I should change the order to the CF frame but isk it’s kts worth $1200 more than this:/



**This post was edited on Mar 26th 2018 at 6:22:21pm
Mar 26 2018 6:20PM
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GarFrom09
Posts: 243 - Karma: 1,176
https://www.commencalusa.com/Mobile/meta-ht-am-origin-650b-red-2018-c2x23712345 Saving up for this hoping to get it by mid summer And then just send everything.
Mar 26 2018 8:49PM
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Aomame
Posts: 281 - Karma: 480
Good set of knee/shin pads for like trail riding? Is that called XC? It's skinny trails through woods and forests. I know people say they don't use them for this because there's lots of pedaling but I ride in places with rocks and tree stumps in the ground and I don't want to explode a kneecap or shin on one, or have my pedals become one with my shin.

And also gloves with some protection?
Mar 26 2018 10:32PM
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commencaldh
Posts: 45 - Karma: 197
AomameGood set of knee/shin pads for like trail riding? Is that called XC? It's skinny trails through woods and forests. I know people say they don't use them for this because there's lots of pedaling but I ride in places with rocks and tree stumps in the ground and I don't want to explode a kneecap or shin on one, or have my pedals become one with my shin.

And also gloves with some protection?


the fox dirtpaw gloves are good
Mar 27 2018 11:38AM
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.nasty
Posts: 10581 - Karma: 11,157
5th bike in 4 years. It’s a good problem to have. Ditching the hideous orange grips that came on it though.

Mar 27 2018 2:12PM
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coloradoBruh
Posts: 40 - Karma: 123
AomameGood set of knee/shin pads for like trail riding? Is that called XC? It's skinny trails through woods and forests. I know people say they don't use them for this because there's lots of pedaling but I ride in places with rocks and tree stumps in the ground and I don't want to explode a kneecap or shin on one, or have my pedals become one with my shin.

And also gloves with some protection?

The Dakine Slayers are pretty good pads. I've been running them for 5 months with frequent crashes and they're still good
Mar 27 2018 2:34PM
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cydwhit
Posts: 5070 - Karma: 43,013
So ready for bike season. Didn't get any new bikes for the last two years and then bought three new bikes, and sold all three of my old bikes, so I've got pretty much my dream quiver right now!

-Santa Cruz Hightower LT in the GX build for trail / bike park duties
-Trek Stache 5.5 29+ for bikepacking / general hardtail tomfoolery
-Kona Sutra LTD for gravel, gravelpacking / commuting

I also bought a sewing machine, so all the bikes have frame bags. They might look a little silly, but I LOVE having nothing on my back, and keeping the center of gravity lower. I'm not 100% sure I'm going to be able to fit everything I need for full all-day missions in the Hightower, but I'm going to be dang close. Right now, between two frame bags, and the One-up EDC pump I can fit all my tools, spare tube, spare parts, One tallboy, one regular beer, one water bottle, snacks, and a rain coat.

Anyone else on the frame bag game? Making them myself has really changed the game, gonna start playing with some accessory bags once I get a free minute....
Mar 27 2018 2:54PM
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Sklar
Posts: 8864 - Karma: 31,612
cydwhitSo ready for bike season. Didn't get any new bikes for the last two years and then bought three new bikes, and sold all three of my old bikes, so I've got pretty much my dream quiver right now!

-Santa Cruz Hightower LT in the GX build for trail / bike park duties
-Trek Stache 5.5 29+ for bikepacking / general hardtail tomfoolery
-Kona Sutra LTD for gravel, gravelpacking / commuting

I also bought a sewing machine, so all the bikes have frame bags. They might look a little silly, but I LOVE having nothing on my back, and keeping the center of gravity lower. I'm not 100% sure I'm going to be able to fit everything I need for full all-day missions in the Hightower, but I'm going to be dang close. Right now, between two frame bags, and the One-up EDC pump I can fit all my tools, spare tube, spare parts, One tallboy, one regular beer, one water bottle, snacks, and a rain coat.

Anyone else on the frame bag game? Making them myself has really changed the game, gonna start playing with some accessory bags once I get a free minute....


Needs more beer storage.
Mar 27 2018 5:51PM
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cozzey
Posts: 1353 - Karma: 1,814
cydwhitSo ready for bike season. Didn't get any new bikes for the last two years and then bought three new bikes, and sold all three of my old bikes, so I've got pretty much my dream quiver right now!

-Santa Cruz Hightower LT in the GX build for trail / bike park duties
-Trek Stache 5.5 29+ for bikepacking / general hardtail tomfoolery
-Kona Sutra LTD for gravel, gravelpacking / commuting

I also bought a sewing machine, so all the bikes have frame bags. They might look a little silly, but I LOVE having nothing on my back, and keeping the center of gravity lower. I'm not 100% sure I'm going to be able to fit everything I need for full all-day missions in the Hightower, but I'm going to be dang close. Right now, between two frame bags, and the One-up EDC pump I can fit all my tools, spare tube, spare parts, One tallboy, one regular beer, one water bottle, snacks, and a rain coat.

Anyone else on the frame bag game? Making them myself has really changed the game, gonna start playing with some accessory bags once I get a free minute....


Would be interested in seeing these and possibly buying one... my Marin Attack Trail could definitely use some storage.
Mar 30 2018 2:05PM
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cct_222
Posts: 1526 - Karma: 141
Any Seattle rippers in here??

Taking a trip there for the first time next month and wanna escape my family for a day and ride me some PNW. Need some recommendations!

Trail wise, I don't need to ride any crazy DH or bike parks. But I was hoping to find a fun trail system with a good mix of everything that's close to downtown Seattle.

Also, any recommendations on a reliable shop that I can demo a do-everything trail bike ?
Apr 2 2018 10:03PM
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Sklar
Posts: 8864 - Karma: 31,612
cct_222Any Seattle rippers in here??

Taking a trip there for the first time next month and wanna escape my family for a day and ride me some PNW. Need some recommendations!

Trail wise, I don't need to ride any crazy DH or bike parks. But I was hoping to find a fun trail system with a good mix of everything that's close to downtown Seattle.

Also, any recommendations on a reliable shop that I can demo a do-everything trail bike ?


I live here, the mountain biking in Seattle is pretty awesome, with lots of new trail opening every year.
Next month being May? Mostly everything should be melted out I would imagine, most probably still have snow at the top right now.
Tiger Mountain is the classic, nice climbing trail, fun descending, option for a gnarlier descent on Predator.
Raging River is a big, pretty full-day ride, but awesome.
Olallie is super buff and smooth, but really fun nonetheless, very pretty.


I work at evo, our Seattle store should have demos ready to go by then, lat year we had Transition, Santa Cruz, Yeti, and Giant demos. Seattle bike demos (this years info will be up in the next week or two)
Apr 3 2018 11:15AM
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cydwhit
Posts: 5070 - Karma: 43,013
cozzeyWould be interested in seeing these and possibly buying one... my Marin Attack Trail could definitely use some storage.


Oooh. Dang, yeah, you could fit a big bag in the Marin. Shoot me a PM if you're serious. I'm not making super fancy Porcelain Rocket style bags, but my last one held up to some serious abuse, and I'd be happy to sew something up for you.
Apr 3 2018 11:58AM
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TrickyDick470
Posts: 443 - Karma: 2,350
AomameGood set of knee/shin pads for like trail riding? Is that called XC? It's skinny trails through woods and forests. I know people say they don't use them for this because there's lots of pedaling but I ride in places with rocks and tree stumps in the ground and I don't want to explode a kneecap or shin on one, or have my pedals become one with my shin.

And also gloves with some protection?


A bit late but I use Fox Launch Enduro knee pads. They are quite comfortable even on long pedaling days, I would recommend them. I no longer ride without knee pads.
Apr 3 2018 12:50PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
Ended up buying an old, 24" dirt jumper yesterday. Needs a little work (a new BB, eventually some pedals and new high rise bars and then cleaning up a couple rusty spots), but for $200, why not. We have a skatepark where I work so will mostly end up using it to help teach kids, so I'm stoked.


Apr 3 2018 2:07PM
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commencaldh
Posts: 45 - Karma: 197
SklarI live here, the mountain biking in Seattle is pretty awesome, with lots of new trail opening every year.
Next month being May? Mostly everything should be melted out I would imagine, most probably still have snow at the top right now.
Tiger Mountain is the classic, nice climbing trail, fun descending, option for a gnarlier descent on Predator.
Raging River is a big, pretty full-day ride, but awesome.
Olallie is super buff and smooth, but really fun nonetheless, very pretty.


I work at evo, our Seattle store should have demos ready to go by then, lat year we had Transition, Santa Cruz, Yeti, and Giant demos. Seattle bike demos (this years info will be up in the next week or two)


also check out Duthie Hill and Exit 27
Apr 3 2018 2:52PM
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nxtyrsfulltilts
Posts: 430 - Karma: 1,533
saskskierEnded up buying an old, 24" dirt jumper yesterday. Needs a little work (a new BB, eventually some pedals and new high rise bars and then cleaning up a couple rusty spots), but for $200, why not. We have a skatepark where I work so will mostly end up using it to help teach kids, so I'm stoked.



Nice find, but the tension on the chain looks super whack.
Apr 3 2018 3:12PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
nxtyrsfulltiltsNice find, but the tension on the chain looks super whack.

It doesn’t have a bottom bracket...
Apr 3 2018 4:46PM
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nxtyrsfulltilts
Posts: 430 - Karma: 1,533
saskskierIt doesn’t have a bottom bracket...


I think this bike might need more than a little work...
Apr 3 2018 5:01PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
nxtyrsfulltiltsI think this bike might need more than a little work...


Why? It has everything except a BB. It's a threaded BB, so probably the easiest part to change on the whole bike. Bars and pedals are just personal preference. I'll probably get rid of the brake too, because brakeless is simple and fun.

I've always done my own wrenching, and of all my bikes (mtb, road and now this) this is hands down the simplest to work on.
Apr 3 2018 6:03PM
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cozzey
Posts: 1353 - Karma: 1,814
I know theres some Evo people on here and I was wondering if you guys usually sell your demo bikes? My mom is looking to get a Juliana Joplin and I've seen a few of them at Evo so just checking to see if they have them at a discounted price.

Gracias.
Apr 4 2018 10:20AM
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Sklar
Posts: 8864 - Karma: 31,612
cozzeyI know theres some Evo people on here and I was wondering if you guys usually sell your demo bikes? My mom is looking to get a Juliana Joplin and I've seen a few of them at Evo so just checking to see if they have them at a discounted price.

Gracias.


All the stores sell their demos at the end of the summer
Apr 4 2018 12:14PM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
Finally bought my first serious bike! Sooo much fun!

Apr 4 2018 1:33PM
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cozzey
Posts: 1353 - Karma: 1,814
TheDoughAbidesFinally bought my first serious bike! Sooo much fun!



I think I was looking at that same one! Let me know how it rides, might have to get one in the future.
Apr 4 2018 2:28PM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
cozzeyI think I was looking at that same one! Let me know how it rides, might have to get one in the future.


So far so good! I haven't been able to ride as much as id like because our trails keep gettin sprinkled with snow just as theyre gettin good. but i'll definitely report back in the next few weeks.
Apr 4 2018 3:19PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
TheDoughAbidesSo far so good! I haven't been able to ride as much as id like because our trails keep gettin sprinkled with snow just as theyre gettin good. but i'll definitely report back in the next few weeks.


A few weeks would be nice. There are predictions that our trails won't be rideable until late May/early June. We've had so much snow this winter and it just isn't warming up...
Apr 4 2018 3:44PM
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zues
Posts: 6434 - Karma: -5,330
This baby is sort of old but still rides great. thinking about getting an enduro as i'm way too old to bust my ass DHing
Apr 4 2018 7:33PM
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a_pla5tic_bag
Posts: 9215 - Karma: 5,398
What happened to Scandium frames? I have a 2015 Kona Kula and I was just looking around and don't see any more scandium alloy frames. Were they actually bad? Is my bike gonna explode?
Apr 5 2018 10:36PM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
saskskierA few weeks would be nice. There are predictions that our trails won't be rideable until late May/early June. We've had so much snow this winter and it just isn't warming up...


were getting snow/rain all weekend.while i cant complain because im about to ski some fresh i hear you im ready to fish and bike
Apr 7 2018 9:10AM
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GhettoYeti
Posts: 210 - Karma: 257
TheDoughAbideswere getting snow/rain all weekend.while i cant complain because im about to ski some fresh i hear you im ready to fish and bike


Ive been riding for two weeks and there is still enough snow that the mountains around here havent closed yet
Apr 7 2018 12:08PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
Swapped out the stem for something a touch longer (50mm vs 35mm) and switched the front tire around to the tread is facing the right direction (my wheel builder messed that one up). The bike is officially finished and ready to ride, even if the weather isn't cooperating. Snow on April 12...


Apr 12 2018 8:02PM
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frekalicious
Posts: 99 - Karma: 298
Just got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!
Apr 13 2018 10:53AM
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cydwhit
Posts: 5070 - Karma: 43,013
frekaliciousJust got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!


Biggest thing that helps me is going out on my own and just sessioning sections of trail until I get them dialed. I'll go out and ride the same three turns 15 times in a row, trying to get the flow exactly right, then move on. Same with climbs, I'll just go ride the damn thing until I clear it, or I'm too beat to keep trying. As far as I've found that's the best way to get my fundamentals down. I really like doing that solo, without the pressure of the group to keep going I'm way more comfortable practicing little sections of trail. The only exception to that is jumps, I like being with a crew to hit new jumps and gaps. Last year I helped coach a little kids MTN bike camp and it might have been the best thing I did all summer for my riding. 30 hours of just practicing flat cornering and manuals and such. Not exciting, but building the fundamentals is vital. And good call on the Roscoe, Plus is the way to go if you're just getting started!
Apr 13 2018 11:17AM
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frekalicious
Posts: 99 - Karma: 298
cydwhitBiggest thing that helps me is going out on my own and just sessioning sections of trail until I get them dialed. I'll go out and ride the same three turns 15 times in a row, trying to get the flow exactly right, then move on. Same with climbs, I'll just go ride the damn thing until I clear it, or I'm too beat to keep trying. As far as I've found that's the best way to get my fundamentals down. I really like doing that solo, without the pressure of the group to keep going I'm way more comfortable practicing little sections of trail. The only exception to that is jumps, I like being with a crew to hit new jumps and gaps. Last year I helped coach a little kids MTN bike camp and it might have been the best thing I did all summer for my riding. 30 hours of just practicing flat cornering and manuals and such. Not exciting, but building the fundamentals is vital. And good call on the Roscoe, Plus is the way to go if you're just getting started!


Thanks! Ill have to try that! Theres a place near by that has a bike park too so maybe working on the pump track and getting comfy with things in the park will help alot!
Apr 13 2018 11:47AM
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nxtyrsfulltilts
Posts: 430 - Karma: 1,533
frekaliciousJust got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!


What helped me out a lot with learning bike control and building overall confidence was riding street. I would just go out for 30 minuets to an hour and ride onto and off stuff. If you need inspiration watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxJQWYJPOXM
Apr 13 2018 12:50PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
frekaliciousJust got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!

I ride both mountain and road bikes and they are totally different animals. Mountain is tough because the trail has rocks and roots and is not a smooth, consistent gradient. It's hard work, but your fitness will build pretty quick.

Skills wise, I would recommend checking in with local bike shops and see what they have for group rides. Most offer varying levels of options for different skill levels. The groups I've gone out with have been super supportive and people are always willing to share knowledge and skills.

Ultimately, get on your bike and ride it. Ride stuff you're comfortable with, but also things that push you. Don't be stupid and ride within your limits. Share the trail and be courteous to hikers and other riders. Have fun!
Apr 13 2018 3:13PM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
frekaliciousJust got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!


Climbing takes time to get good at but I highly recommend getting into dirt jumping if you really wanna learn how to descend!
Apr 13 2018 10:58PM
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nxtyrsfulltilts
Posts: 430 - Karma: 1,533
TheDoughAbidesClimbing takes time to get good at but I highly recommend getting into dirt jumping if you really wanna learn how to descend!


Wut.
Apr 14 2018 12:29AM
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mtbakerpow
Posts: 1105 - Karma: 927
frekaliciousJust got my first mountain bike and broke it out yesterday. obviously Im destroyed since I've never done it before. any tips or tricks to help me improve or gain confidence?? first outing went about as expected if not a little bit better! mainly struggled with going up hill and over roots and rocks uphill, on flatter rolling sections did way better in comparison, and was scared pretty good down anything kinda steep. I have a Trek Roscoe so the tires are not fat bike size but bigger than standard. Help. side note it was a blast and im super excited to get better over the summer!


Get comfortable riding while standing,allowing you body to move forward and aft for various terrain will def help with stability and control. No need to be sitting on anything bumpy,off camber or cornering esp when wet! My best advice is get a couple of your friends on bikes of similar ability and ride together as much as possible;)
Apr 14 2018 12:36AM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
nxtyrsfulltiltsWut.


dj skills = dh skills
Apr 14 2018 12:36AM
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mtbakerpow
Posts: 1105 - Karma: 927
cadebucketJust ordered a YT capra 29, can't wait for it to come!!


Did you get your updated arrival/shipping date?they pushed mine back 3 weeks!i want my bike !since they took my money!lemme know when yours arrives
Apr 14 2018 12:44AM
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cadebucket
Posts: 298 - Karma: 990
mtbakerpowDid you get your updated arrival/shipping date?they pushed mine back 3 weeks!i want my bike !since they took my money!lemme know when yours arrives


No, i havent heard anything about that
Apr 14 2018 1:58AM
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ThaLorax
Posts: 21083 - Karma: 8,455
TheDoughAbidesdj skills = dh skills


Hard nope
Apr 15 2018 3:04AM
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TheDoughAbides
Posts: 1319 - Karma: 4,036
ThaLoraxHard nope


lol
Apr 15 2018 10:54AM
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JamaicanWeezer
Posts: 82 - Karma: 186
It's time to get the trails up and running pretty soon I'm stoked.
Apr 16 2018 12:55PM
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saskskier
Posts: 4774 - Karma: 10,005
Could get up to 20cm of snow today. AKA the entire average snowfall of April. So much for mountain biking this year...
Apr 16 2018 1:22PM
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cydwhit
Posts: 5070 - Karma: 43,013
ThaLoraxHard nope


Only if you're riding flow trails, and even then...... Really want to hear the logic behind that one.
Apr 16 2018 2:04PM
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